Why?During a vet visit in April 2017, Wellington's mama, Pina, learned something quite surprising, through Dr. Angus, a veterinary specialist in Pasadena, which prompted Pina and Wellington to create #MissionWellington:

Evidently less than 5% of US homeless shelters provide a place to sleep for people with her dogs. That was a shocking statistic for Pina. She was immediately inspired to help homeless people and their dogs. Dr. Angus mentioned that often times people will stay in a challenging situation, even end up on the streets rather than risking bien separated from their dogs. These pups are often their sole connection to unconditional love, loyalty and protection.

What?Pina felt, "Those of us who are dog parents know that, if we were ever homeless, we would share any food with our dogs. Our furry children are family to us." So inspired-action took over.

How?​Through Wellington’s Instagram, people all around the country were invited to "pay-it-forward" with any gently used (or new) leashes, towels, blankets, toys, bowl, shampoos and treats; she created a raffle for the participants with prizes generously donated by Airbnb, Whole Foods and Weleda Organics. People on Instagram and around the country have continued to donate doggie supplies. A friend has stepped up and made possible an ongoing dog-food-donation: thank you from our hearts Mark Stewart! With his mama & friends, Welly went to the poorest streets to hand-deliver these goodies, and do so regularly. Wellington even met his name-sake!!

Wellington met his name-sake Wellington on one of the poorest streets of Los Angeles. Pina makes sure to visit and brings foods and supplies for the homeless pups, and for Wellington too.

Heartbreak into Legacy:Wellington's heart suddenly stopped during a treatment he was undergoing for a cancer lodged inside his heart. His life was about making a difference, a legacy which continues on through his @LifeAccordingToWellington Instagram -a life of true service.

​We thank you for teaching us through your active compassion, Wellington, we miss you SO much, and we promise to honor your inspiring legacy.

​For those of you inspired to donate doggies supplies & food, you are welcome to mail us any gently used (or new) leashes, towels, blankets, toys, bowls, shampoos, treats at the following address:

If you are inspired to do something like this in your city, in any of your neighborhoods, we'd love for you to post photos of the pups receiving your generosity using the following hashtags so that we can this this pay-it-forward movement grow: